NAIROBI, Kenya — In the heart of Nairobi, women like Naomi Wanjiku are breaking stereotypes and making significant contributions to the construction and renovation of their local places of worship, demonstrating a blend of skill, dedication, and community spirit.
According to Kenya News Agency, where Wanjiku has been actively involved, the project is part of a broader initiative by the community to upgrade and maintain their worship spaces. With 20 such projects across Kenya, ranging from minor repairs to major overhauls, the efforts are aimed at ensuring these buildings are safe, welcoming, and conducive to the community’s needs.
Naomi Wanjiku, a 28-year-old electrician from Donholm, Nairobi, has become an emblematic figure in these endeavors. With a diploma in electrical engineering from Thika Technical Training Institute, Wanjiku has transcended traditional gender roles, leveraging her expertise in both her professional career and volunteer work. Her involvement in the Kingdom Hall renovation in Umoja is a testament to her skills and commitment to her faith community.
Under the supervision of industry professionals like Robert Chenje and alongside volunteers from across the region, Wanjiku has been integral to the hall’s renovation. The project’s scope includes substantial structural and aesthetic upgrades, from roof replacement to new washroom constructions, all aimed at revitalizing the hall for future activities.
The site has seen remarkable collaboration among volunteers, particularly women, who, despite traditionally being underrepresented in such fields, have shown equal, if not greater, participation and competence. Their work not only contributes to the physical structure but also fosters a sense of regional unity, with volunteers hailing from Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Wanjiku’s role extends beyond electrical work; she is also involved in various construction tasks and utilizes her skills in computer-aided design to help plan the renovations. Her dedication is reflective of a broader trend toward empowering women in diverse skill sets and challenging the status quo within the construction industry.
As the Kingdom Hall in Umoja prepares for significant events, such as the annual commemoration of Jesus Christ’s death, the contributions of volunteers like Wanjiku ensure that the venue is ready and welcoming. Their work not only serves their immediate community but also sets a precedent for broader societal change, highlighting the valuable and versatile roles women can play in traditionally male-dominated fields.